Fence construction system and method

ABSTRACT

Embodiments of the present application provides a system and method of a fence assembly. The system includes a vertical member, one or more channel rails, and an array of mating apertures running along the one or more channel rails for coupling a plurality of rails. In another embodiment, a fence system includes a first vertical member, a second vertical member, one or more channel rails, and a plurality of rails positioned between the first vertical member and the second vertical member according to the at least one channel among the one or more channels rails, the plurality of rails coupled the corresponding channel rails via a plurality of mating apertures.

BACKGROUND 1. Field of the Invention

The present application relates to the field of fencing systems, andmore particularly to fence support structures and fence gates.

2. Description of Related Art

Fencing systems are used to create a land enclosure through artificialbarriers. Fence systems generally have a vertical fence post that issecured to the ground by partially burying one end of the postunderground and then securing the buried end with poured concrete.Firmly anchored to the ground, the vertical fence post serves asstructural support for further fence attachments. In some fence systems,horizontal struts (typically two or three) are a mounted between a pairof vertical fence posts wherein a plurality of fence boards are mountedvertically along the horizontal struts. The arrangement of the pluralityof fence boards form a planar barrier spanning between the two verticalfence posts via the horizontal struts.

While this system is widely used in constructing fences, this system hasseveral drawbacks. To construct this system, a craftsman must makecareful alignment of the horizontal struts with respect to correspondingvertical posts to ensure that the plurality of fence boards standvertically as well as forming a plane perpendicular to the horizon.Furthermore, the craftsman must ensure careful alignment of each fenceboard among the plurality of fence boards to ensure each board ispositioned vertically and properly spaced against adjacent fence boardsto prevent an unsightly crooked alignment. The required carefulalignment of this system is a burden in time and manpower for thecraftsman, thus an improved fencing system is desired that allows quickalignment of fencing members to quickly construct of a fence.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present application disclose a method and system of afence post assembly. In one embodiment of the present application, anassembly is provided comprising: a vertical member, wherein the verticalmember has a first end and a second end, the vertical member having aplurality of faces; one or more channel rails coupled correspondingly toone or more faces of the plurality of faces, the channel rail extendingbetween the first end and the second end, the channel rail including aplurality of mating apertures; and an array of mating apertures runningalong the one or more channel rails for coupling a plurality of rails.

In another embodiment, a fence post assembly is provided comprising: afirst vertical member, wherein the vertical member has a first end and asecond end, the vertical member having a plurality of faces; a secondvertical member, wherein the second vertical member has a first end anda second end, the vertical member having a plurality of faces; one ormore channel rails coupled correspondingly to one or more faces of theplurality of faces of the first vertical member; one or more channelrails coupled correspondingly to one or more faces of the plurality offaces of the second member; wherein at least one channel among the oneor more channel rails of the first vertical member and the secondvertical member face one another; each channel rail of the one or morechannel rails of the first vertical member and the one or more channelrails of the second vertical member extending between the first end andthe second end, each channel rail including a plurality of matingapertures; and a plurality of rails positioned between the firstvertical member and the second vertical member according to the at leastone channel among the one or more channels rails of the first verticalmember and the second vertical member facing one another, the pluralityof rails coupled the corresponding channel rails via the plurality ofmating apertures.

Ultimately the invention may take many embodiments. In these ways, thepresent invention overcomes the disadvantages inherent in the prior art.

The more important features have thus been outlined in order that themore detailed description that follows may be better understood and toensure that the present contribution to the art is appreciated.Additional features will be described hereinafter and will form thesubject matter of the claims that follow.

Many objects of the present application will appear from the followingdescription and appended claims, reference being made to theaccompanying drawings forming a part of this specification wherein likereference characters designate corresponding parts in the several views.

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the present application indetail, it is to be understood that the embodiments are not limited inits application to the details of construction and the arrangements ofthe components set forth in the following description or illustrated inthe drawings. The embodiments are capable of being practiced and carriedout in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseologyand terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description andshould not be regarded as limiting.

As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception,upon which this disclosure is based, may readily be utilized as a basisfor the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carryingout the various purposes of the present design. It is important,therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalentconstructions in so far as they do not depart from the spirit and scopeof the present application.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the application are setforth in the appended claims. However, the application itself, as wellas a preferred mode of use, and further objectives and advantagesthereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detaileddescription when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vertical post, in accordance with anembodiment of the present application;

FIG. 2 is a cross section of a first configuration of a vertical post,in accordance with an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 3 is a cross section of a second configuration of a vertical post,in accordance with an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 4 is a cross section of a third configuration of a vertical post,in accordance with an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 5 is a cross section and a front view of a fourth configuration ofa vertical post, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentapplication;

FIG. 6 is a cross section and a side view of a fifth configuration of avertical post, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentapplication;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a vertical post with a channel cap, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 8 is a front and side view of a brace, in accordance with anembodiment of the present application;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a spacer, in accordance with anembodiment of the present application;

FIG. 10 is front view of a fence assembly, in accordance with anembodiment of the present application;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view and a front view of a vertical frame, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a horizontal frame, in accordance withan embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 13 is a front view of a gate assembly, in accordance with anembodiment of the present application;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a first collar anchor for the verticalpost, in accordance with an embodiment of the present application; and

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a second collar anchor for the verticalpost in accordance with an embodiment of the present application.

While the embodiments and method of the present application issusceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specificembodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawingsand are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however,that the description herein of specific embodiments is not intended tolimit the application to the particular embodiment disclosed, but on thecontrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, andalternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the process of thepresent application as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Illustrative embodiments of the preferred embodiment are describedbelow. In the interest of clarity, not all features of an actualimplementation are described in this specification. It will of course beappreciated that in the development of any such actual embodiment,numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve thedeveloper's specific goals, such as compliance with system-related andbusiness-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation toanother. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effortmight be complex and time-consuming but would nevertheless be a routineundertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit ofthis disclosure.

In the specification, reference may be made to the spatial relationshipsbetween various components and to the spatial orientation of variousaspects of components as the devices are depicted in the attacheddrawings. However, as will be recognized by those skilled in the artafter a complete reading of the present application, the devices,members, apparatuses, etc. described herein may be positioned in anydesired orientation. Thus, the use of terms to describe a spatialrelationship between various components or to describe the spatialorientation of aspects of such components should be understood todescribe a relative relationship between the components or a spatialorientation of aspects of such components, respectively, as theembodiments described herein may be oriented in any desired direction.

The system and method in accordance with the present applicationovercomes one or more of the above-discussed problems commonlyassociated with traditional fence systems. In particular, the system ofthe present application is a fence system that comprise a plurality ofvertical posts each having a set of vertical mating channels whereopposing vertical mating channels corresponding to two vertical posts ofthe plurality of fence posts serves as a placement guide for a pluralityof rails stacked horizontally along the corresponding mating channelsbetween the two vertical posts. The opposing vertical mating channelsrestricts motion of the plurality of rails along the mating channelprior to fastening the plurality of boards to the respective verticalposts, thus allowing for quick alignment and construction of the fenceassembly. An advantage of this system is not only a reduction time forconstructing the fence assembly, but also a reduction in materials ashorizontal struts generally needed for securing the plurality of fenceboards are no longer required since the present invention utilizes theplurality of fence boards as horizontal struts between the two verticalposts. Further embodiments of the present application include a gateassembly utilizing an opposing set of vertical mating channels insimilar form and fashion of the disclosed fence system, wherein the gateassembly is configured to integrate with the fence system disclosedherein. These and other unique features of the system are discussedbelow and illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

The system and method will be understood, both as to its structure andoperation, from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying description. Several embodiments of the system may bepresented herein. It should be understood that various components,parts, and features of the different embodiments may be combinedtogether and/or interchanged with one another, all of which are withinthe scope of the present application, even though not all variations andparticular embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should also beunderstood that the mixing and matching of features, elements, and/orfunctions between various embodiments is expressly contemplated hereinso that one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate from thisdisclosure that the features, elements, and/or functions of oneembodiment may be incorporated into another embodiment as appropriate,unless otherwise described.

The system and method of the present application is illustrated in theassociated drawings. As used herein, “system” and “assembly” are usedinterchangeably. As used herein, a “fastener” is a rod-like hardwaredevice that mechanically joins or affixes two or more members togetherthrough a respective concentric set of apertures. For example, afastener can be a screw, bolt, nail, stud, dowel, rivet, staple, etc. inconjunction with any applicable nuts and washers generally known in theart of fastening. It should be noted that the articles “a”, “an”, and“the”, as used in this specification, include plural referents unlessthe content clearly dictates otherwise.

Additional features and functions are illustrated and discussed below.

Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference characters identifycorresponding or similar elements in form and function throughout theseveral views. FIGS. 1, 7-9 illustrate assorted views of components of afence system. FIGS. 2-6 illustrate cross sections and views of variousconfigurations of a vertical post of a fence system. FIG. 10 illustratesan embodiment of a fence system. FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate assortedviews of components of a gate system. FIG. 13 illustrates an embodimentof a gate system. FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate various embodiments of acollar anchor for a vertical post.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a perspective view of vertical post 100 isillustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present application.

In FIG. 1, vertical post 100 is a fence post comprising vertical member101. In further embodiments, vertical post 100 include any combinationto include, but is not limited to, channel rail 103, endcap 105, andfoundation apertures 107 a-b, mating apertures 109 a, and post apertures112. In this embodiment, vertical member 101 is a structural loadbearing member having a cross section having at least 4 sides, forexample a quadrilateral or octagonal shape. In some embodiments, thequadrilateral cross section can be, but not limited to, rectilinear(i.e., rectangular, or square), trapezoidal, rhomboid, or any otherirregular quadrilateral that will allow for a fenced enclosure to haveangles other than 90 degrees. In further embodiments, the edges ofvertical member 101 can be chamfered or fillet edges. In someembodiments, vertical member 101 can be, but is not limited to, metal(e.g., iron, steel, aluminum, or any other metallic composite), wood, orof plastics typically used for plastic lumber (e.g., acrylonitrilebutadiene styrene (ABS), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinylchloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polylactic acid(PLA), etc.) In other embodiments, vertical member 101 is a metal castor rolled form beam. In another embodiment, vertical member 101 isideally a member casted in a single pour mold. Various lengths ofvertical member 101 are contemplated. In one embodiment, vertical member101 is hollow. In alternate embodiment, vertical member 101 is a solidmember (i.e., not hollow) excluding through holes associated withfoundation apertures 107 a and 107 b.

In this embodiment, a first end of vertical member 101 (i.e., member end106) and a portion thereof (i.e., length 104) is submerged in afoundation, wherein the foundation can include, but is not limited to,ground/dirt, a hole in the ground filled with poured concrete, a mobileconcrete block, etc. In this embodiment, length 104 is a length alongvertical member 101 bounded by member end 106 and a first end of channelrail 103 (i.e., channel end 110)

In some embodiments, vertical member 101 has set of apertures (i.e.,foundation apertures 107 a) located on opposing planar faces of verticalmember 101 and are located on the portion of vertical member 101 (length104) that is intended for submersion in the foundation (i.e. member end106). In other words, foundation apertures 107 a are located withinlength 104 measuring from the first end of vertical member 101 (i.e.,member end 106) to a first end of channel rail 103 (i.e., channel end110). Various sizes of foundation apertures 107 a are contemplated. Inone embodiment, foundation apertures 107 a allow for material of thefoundation to enter into vertical member 101 via foundation apertures107 a to structurally connect vertical member 101 with the foundation(i.e., concrete enters foundation apertures 107 a, thereby lockingvertical member 101 with the foundation). In a further embodiment, a setof foundation apertures 107 a are concentrically positioned acrossopposing planar faces to allow foundation support bar 129 to passthrough the set of apertures. In this embodiment, a user passesfoundation support bar 129 (e.g., rebar) through vertical member 101 viaa set of foundation apertures 107 a, then submerges the first end ofvertical member 101 and portions thereof into a foundation, wherein thefoundation support bar adds structural stability in keeping verticalmember 101 vertical.

In a further embodiment, vertical member 101 has a set of apertures(i.e., foundation apertures 107 b) located on adjacent planar faces offoundation apertures 107 b. Foundation apertures 107 b has similar formand function as foundation apertures 107 a. In a further embodiment,foundation apertures 107 b are offset a distance other than a distancelocating foundation apertures 107 a from the first end of verticalmember 101. In other words, a set of foundation apertures 107 b and setof foundation apertures 107 a are positioned such that a firstfoundation support bar passing through the set of foundation apertures107 b do not intersect with a second foundation support bar passingthrough the set of foundation apertures 107 a (see aperture 107 a andaperture 107 b configuration illustrated in FIG. 1).

In this embodiment, channel rail 103 is a metal member that forms arectangular U-shaped channel with vertical member 101, wherein theU-shaped channel serves as a mating channel for aligning and mounting aplurality of rails 127, such as fence boards for example (see FIG. 10).As used herein, “U-shaped channel” and “mating channel” are usedinterchangeably. Channel rail 103 runs vertically along a planar face ofvertical member 101 having a length defined such that a first end ofchannel rail 103 (i.e., channel end 110) is positioned a first length(i.e., length 104) from the first end of vertical member 101 (i.e.,member end 106), wherein the length 104 corresponds to the portion ofvertical member 101 that is submerged in a foundation, and a second endof channel rail 103 (i.e., channel end 112) is positioned a secondlength from the second end of vertical member 101. Various lengths ofthe first length are contemplated to allow partial submersion ofvertical member 101 into a foundation without channel rail 103contacting the foundation. Various lengths of the second length arecontemplated. In an alternate embodiment, the second end of channel rail103 ends flush with the second end of vertical member 101. In oneembodiment, channel rail 103 has an array of apertures (i.e., matingapertures 109 a) wherein each aperture among the array of apertures arepositioned equidistantly from each other at a predetermined distance,wherein the array of apertures vertically span along channel rail 103,and wherein each aperture has an opposing concentric aperture across theU-shaped channel that permits a fastener to pass through the apertureand the opposing aperture (see the array configuration mating apertures109 a illustrated in FIG. 1).

In some embodiments, channel rail 103 is welded (e.g., tack, spot, orstep) to vertical member 101. In another embodiment, channel rail 103and vertical member 101 are formed together as an integrated componentthrough casting in a single pour mold. It is also understood that themating apertures 109 a, although shown having equidistant spacing andconcentric opposing aperture alignment, such is not required. Matingapertures 109 a on opposing sides of channel rail 103 may be staggeredout of alignment to permit a fastener to pass into rail 127 by onlyengaging a single aperture 109 a. Additionally, the spacing verticallyof mating apertures 109 a may be varied along the length of verticalmember 101 in accordance with particular rails 127 or designconstraints.

For embodiments wherein vertical member 101 is hollow, a furtherembodiment includes endcap 105, wherein endcap 105 is a removable endcapthat covers a hollow opening at the second end of vertical member 101.In this embodiment, endcap 105 can be, but is not limited to, plastic ormetal. In this embodiment, endcap 105 fits concentrically within ahollow opening (i.e., hollow opening 114; see FIG. 7 for hollowingopening 114) at the second end of vertical member 101 (i.e., member end108). In a further embodiment, endcap 105 has aperture 111 that allowselectrical wiring to pass through the hollow body of vertical member101, and/or permits a mountable a light fixture. In one embodiment, apost aperture (i.e., post aperture 112) is located on one of the planarfaces of vertical member 101, wherein the aperture permits electricalconduit to pass through into vertical member 101.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a cross section of configuration 200 of anembodiment of vertical post 100 is illustrated in accordance with anembodiment of the present application.

In this embodiment, configuration 200 is a configuration for verticalpost 100 wherein the vertical post serves as an end post of a fencesystem such that any mounted plurality of rails to vertical post 100only splay outwards in one direction. In this configuration, only onemating channel (i.e., a U-shaped channel formed by channel rail 103) isattached to vertical member 101. In other words, vertical post 100illustrated in FIG. 1 illustrates the embodiment of configuration 200.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a cross section of configuration 300 of anembodiment of vertical post 100 is illustrated in accordance with anembodiment of the present application.

In this embodiment, configuration 300 is a configuration for verticalpost 100 wherein the vertical post serves as a corner post of a fencesystem such that any mounted plurality of rails to vertical post 100splay outwards in two directions according to two mating channelsconfigured to a quadrilateral cross section of vertical member 101,wherein the two directions are not in line. For example, in oneembodiment, the two mating channels are configured 90 degrees apart suchas shown in FIG. 3. In another example, two mating channels are 120degrees apart based on a rhomboid cross section of vertical member 101(not shown).

Referring now to FIG. 4, a cross section of configuration 400 of anembodiment of vertical post 100 is illustrated in accordance with anembodiment of the present application.

In this embodiment, configuration 400 is a configuration for verticalpost 100 wherein the vertical post serves as a mid-post of a fencesystem such that any mounted plurality of rails to vertical post 100splay outwards in two directions according to two mating channelsconfigured, wherein the two directions are in line. For example, in oneembodiment, the two mating channels are configured 180 degrees apartsuch as shown in FIG. 4.

In a further embodiment, a configuration for vertical post 100 can havea combination of configuration 300 and configuration 400. For example,vertical post 100 can have a configuration having three mating channelsthat splay in three directions, thus forming a “T” junction for a fenceassembly. In another example, vertical post 100 can have a configurationhaving four mating channels that splay in four directions, thus forminga “+” junction for a fence assembly.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a cross section and a front view ofconfiguration 500 of an embodiment of vertical post 100 is illustratedin accordance with an embodiment of the present application.

In this embodiment, configuration 500 is a configuration for verticalpost 100 wherein the vertical post serves as a latch post of a fencesystem such that a gate having a latch can latch to vertical post 100via a gate latch punchout according to configuration 500. Configuration500 include aperture 113, wherein aperture 113 is a gate latch punchout.In further embodiments, a vertical post utilizing configuration 500 iscombinable with configurations 200, 300, and 400, but is limited tohaving at most three mating channels splaying in three directions withno mating channel on a face of vertical member 101 having aperture 113.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a cross section and a side view ofconfiguration 600 of an embodiment of vertical post 100 is illustratedin accordance with an embodiment of the present application.

In this embodiment, configuration 600 is a configuration for verticalpost 100 wherein the vertical post serves as a hinge post of a fencesystem such that a gate having a hinge is mountable to vertical post 100via a hinge bracket according to configuration 600. Configuration 600include hinge bracket 115, wherein hinge bracket 115 has aperture 117such that a hinge of a gate pivots with respect to aperture 117. SeeFIG. 11 for hinge 113, and FIG. 13 for gate assembly 1300. In furtherembodiments, a vertical post utilizing configuration 600 is combinablewith configurations 200, 300, and 400, but is limited to having at mostthree mating channels splaying in three directions with no matingchannel on a face of vertical member 101 having hinge bracket 115.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a perspective view of vertical post 100 withchannel cap 119 is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent application.

In this embodiment, channel cap 119 is a rectangular U-shaped memberthat covers the second end of channel rail 103 that forms a matingchannel. Channel cap 119 adds further stability by preventing rails fromsliding out of the mating channel. Furthermore, Channel cap 119 addsweather protection to portions of rails mounted within the matingchannel. Channel cap 119 has a set of opposing apertures (i.e., matingapertures 109 b), wherein the opposing apertures mount via a fastenerwith a corresponding set of mating apertures 109 a located towards thesecond end of channel rail 103 (i.e., channel end 112). In thisembodiment, channel rail 103 that form the mating channel fitconcentrically within the U-shaped body of channel cap 119.

Referring now to FIG. 8, a front and side view of brace 800 isillustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present application.

In this embodiment, brace 121 is a support strap for securing aplurality of rails, thus preventing the plurality of rails from warping.Brace 121 comprises hook member portion, wherein the hook member is ametal hook-shaped member that positions around a rail among a pluralityof rails (see rail 127 in FIG. 10). Brace 121 has an array of apertures123 that allow fasteners to conjoin brace 121 to a plurality of rails.In this embodiment, brace 121 is positioned to pass across a pluralityof rails. The combination of fasteners via apertures 123 and thehook-shaped feature of brace 121 effectively bind the plurality of railstogether for added stability. Brace 121 is further illustrated in FIG.10.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a perspective view of spacer 125 is illustratedin accordance with an embodiment of the present application.

In this embodiment, spacer 125 is an object that serves as a separatorbetween a plurality of rails within a mating channel formed by channelrail 113. Dimensions of spacer 125 are confined so as to allow spacer125 to fit within the mating channel, however, in alternativeembodiments, various heights of spacer 125 are contemplated to allowvarious separations between the plurality of rails. In some embodiments,spacer 125 is assembled as part as a permanent structure of the fenceassembly. In an alternate embodiment, spacer 125 is removable oncespacing between the plurality of rails is acquired and the plurality ofrails are fastened to channel rail 103. Spacer 125 is furtherillustrated in FIG. 10. Spacer 125 is not required, but is an optionalcomponent for use.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a front view of fence assembly 1000 isillustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present application.

In this embodiment, fence assembly 1000 is an example setupdemonstrating an assembly method using a simple two vertical postlayout. In this example, two vertical posts 100 utilizing configuration200 are employed.

To construct fence assembly 1000, a user locates a plurality of fenceposts such that a vertical member (i.e., vertical member 101) of eachfence post is oriented in a vertical orientation on a foundation,wherein a channel rail (i.e., channel rail 103) of a first fence postfaces towards a channel rail of a second post.

The user anchors each vertical post to a foundation, wherein eachvertical post has a mating channel (formed by channel rail 103) alignedand facing a mating channel of an opposing vertical post. In thisexample, the user anchors each vertical post to a foundation by digginga set of post holes (i.e., post holes 130) in a foundation (i.e.foundation 131), wherein the set of post holes correspond to eachvertical post 100. In this example, the user digs a set of post holes toany desired depth such that a diameter of the set of post holesaccommodates a length of foundation support bar. The distance betweenthe set of post holes should be no greater than corresponding lengths ofa plurality rails to be used for the fence assembly. In this example,the user inserts a set of foundation support bar (i.e., foundationsupport bar 129) through each vertical member 101 respective to eachvertical post 100 via foundation apertures 107 a and foundationapertures 107 b. The user then submerges a first end of vertical member101 (i.e., member end 106) and portions thereof to include foundationsupport bar 129 (i.e., length 104) of each vertical post into thecorresponding set of post holes while ensuring vertical member 101 isvertical with respect to the horizon. The user completes the anchoringprocess by filling each respective post hole with a foundation filler(i.e., cement/concrete, dirt, gravel, etc.).

The user locates a plurality of rails (i.e., rails 127) between thefirst fence post and the second post based on the channel rail of thefirst fence post and the channel rail of the second fence post, whereinthe plurality of rails form a planar barrier based on the channel railof the first fence post and the channel rail of the second fence post.In some embodiments, a user locates a set of spacers (i.e. spacers 125)within the channel rail of the first fence post and a set of spacerswithin the channel rail of the second fence post, wherein each spacer islocated between a set of boards of the plurality of boards. FIG. 10illustrates the embodiment where spacers 125 are used to space pluralityof boards 127.

The user then conjoins the plurality of rails to the channel rail of thefirst fence post and the channel rail of the second fence post based onan array of mating apertures (i.e., mating apertures 109 a)corresponding to the channel rail of the first fence post and thechannel rail of the second fence post. The user conjoins the pluralityof rails using a plurality of fasteners.

In some embodiments, a user locates a set of braces (i.e., hook member121) across the plurality of rails, wherein the set of braces addstructural support to the plurality of rails and prevents the pluralityof rails from warping. The set of braces are conjoined to the pluralityof boards via mating apertures 123. In some embodiments, the set ofbraces overlap (illustrated in FIG. 10). In alternate embodiments, theset of braces do not overlap.

Referring now to FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, a perspective view and a frontview of vertical frame 1100 and a perspective view of horizontal frame1200 are illustrated respectively. In this embodiment, vertical frame1100 and horizontal frame 1200 are frame members that, when conjoined,form a door frame for a gate. Vertical frame 1100 is a vertical memberhaving vertical member 132 and channel rail 103 wherein channel 103 runsvertically along a planar face of vertical frame 132. Vertical frame1100 has a cross section of similar form and function of configuration200 illustrated in FIG. 2. Vertical member 132 is in equal length ofchannel rail 103. As illustrated in FIG. 11, vertical member 132 hasmating aperture 134 a located at each end of vertical member 132,wherein mating apertures 134 a are located on a planar face of verticalmember 132 opposing that of a planar face of vertical member 132 that isconjoined with channel rail 103.

In some embodiments, vertical member 132 has a hole punchout (i.e.,aperture 135 as seen in FIG. 13) to permit a locking mechanism. In thisembodiment, vertical member 132 also employs configuration 500 to permita latch paired with the locking mechanism to protrude from the body ofvertical member 132 via aperture 113 (not shown). The locking mechanismmay engage vertical member 101 in any of its various configurationsthrough a corresponding aperture or some attached device, so as tosecure the position of the gate (see FIG. 13).

In an alternate embodiment, vertical member 132 has hinge members (i.e.,hinges 133) that protrude from the planar face of vertical member 132opposing that of the planar face of vertical member 132 that isconjoined with channel rail 103. In this embodiment, hinge members arean L-shaped member having a first end integrated with the body ofvertical member 132 and a second end pointing at a first end or a secondend of vertical member 132. In one embodiment, each hinge member of aplurality of hinge members has each respective end pointing in a uniformdirection (i.e., all hinge members point towards the first end ofvertical member 132, or all hinge members point towards the second endof vertical member 132). In an alternate embodiment, a set of hingesamong the plurality hinges have a corresponding second end that isoriented opposite of a corresponding second end of the remainingplurality of hinges. In other words, a first set of hinges have a secondend facing towards a first end of vertical member 132, while a secondset of hinges have a second end facing towards a second end of verticalmember 132 (see hinge 133 orientation illustrated in FIG. 11). One ormore pins may be used with hinges 133 to secure their relative positionwithin hinge brackets 115.

Horizontal frame 1200 has horizontal member 137 and brackets 139.Horizontal member 137 is a rectangular bar with a set of brackets (i.e.,brackets 139) splaying outward from a planar face of the rectangularbar, wherein a bracket among the set of brackets is located at each endof the rectangular bar. Brackets 139 have mating apertures 134 b thatplanarly mate with mating apertures 134 a of vertical frame 1100 suchthat bracket 139 slides in an end of vertical member 132 such thatmating aperture 134 a and mating aperture 134 b concentrically align.Vertical frame 1100 and horizontal frame 1200 are conjoined using afastener via mating aperture 134 a and mating aperture 134 b.

Referring to FIG. 13, a front view of gate assembly 1300 is illustrated,in accordance with an embodiment of the present application.

In this embodiment, gate assembly 1300 is a door that couples with afence system. Gate assembly 1300 comprises two vertical frame 1100, twohorizontal frame 1200, and rails 127. Vertical frames 1100 andhorizontal frames 1200 are conjoined via mating apertures 139 a andmating apertures 139 b to form a door frame. A plurality of rails (i.e.,rails 127) are cut to size such as to permit the plurality of rails toslide into corresponding mating channels formed by channel rails 103.The plurality of rails conjoined to each respective mating channel by aplurality of fasteners via a plurality of mating apertures (i.e., matingapertures 109 a). In this embodiment, gate assembly 1300 has a firstvertical frame having lock punchout 135 to permit installation of alatching mechanism. In this embodiment, gate assembly 1300 has a secondvertical frame having a plurality of L-shaped hinges (i.e., hinges 133)that are configured to pivot with respect to a plurality of hingebrackets associated with a fence post (i.e., hinge brackets 115).

Referring to FIG. 14 and FIG. 15, a perspective views of collar anchor1400 and collar anchor 1500 for the vertical post are illustrated, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present application.

In general, collar anchor 1400 and collar anchor 1500 are floatingcollar anchors that can be positioned at variable distances withinlength 104 along vertical member 101. Floating collar anchors distributeloads and torques carried by a vertical post. For instance, in someembodiments the floating collar anchors are used in conjunction with avertical post to support a gate (i.e., gate assembly 1300) that iscantilevered from the vertical post. In this example, floating collaranchors prevent the vertical post from flexing within a post hole thatwould otherwise make the vertical post loose from the post hole aftercontinuous load and gate use. In some embodiments, floating collaranchors are buried in a post hole using cement, concrete, or any otherfoundational material.

In one embodiment, collar anchor 1400 includes collar 141 a and supportrods 143. In this embodiment, collar 141 a is a member that fitsconcentrically and flush with the plurality of planar faces of verticalmember 101 while allowing collar 141 a to be positioned at variouspositions within length 104 at installation. In this embodiment, collar141 a has a plurality of support rods (i.e., support rods 143) thatsplay outwards from a corresponding plurality of planar faces of collar141 a. In this embodiment, loads and torques carried by a vertical postare transferred to collar 141 a and subsequently to the plurality ofsupport rods in conjunction with a foundation.

In further embodiments, a plurality of U-shaped stakes (i.e., stakes145) are positioned correspondingly to the plurality of support rods.The plurality of U-shaped stakes adds additional structural support byserving as a restraining brace against the plurality of support rodswithin the foundation. In one embodiment, each U-shaped stake ispositioned around a corresponding support rod such that each end of theU-shaped stake points towards member end 106 (see positioning andorientation illustrated in FIG. 14).

In another embodiment, collar anchor 1500 includes collar 141 b andsupport disk 147. In this embodiment, collar 141 b is a member that fitsconcentrically and flush with the plurality of planar faces of verticalmember 101 while allowing collar 141 b to be positioned at variouspositions within length 104 at installation. In this embodiment, collar141 b has an integrated support disk (i.e., support disk 147) thatsplays radially outward from a corresponding plurality of planar facesof collar 141 b. In this embodiment, loads and torques carried by avertical post are transferred to collar 141 b and subsequently to thesupport disk in conjunction with a foundation.

In further embodiments, the integrated support disk has a plurality offoundation apertures (i.e., foundation apertures 149) wherein aplurality of U-shaped stakes (i.e., stakes 145) hook into the supportdisk via the corresponding foundation apertures. In this embodiment,each U-shaped stake is positioned such that a first end of stake 145passes through a corresponding foundation aperture 149 and the secondend of stake 145 lays outside a radius of the support disk. The firstend and the second end of stake 145 points towards member end 106 (seepositioning and orientation illustrated in FIG. 15).

It is understood that collar anchor 1400 and collar anchor 1500 may bemade from one or more parts allowing for the option of assembly to aidin construction of the fence assembly. For example, collar anchor 1400may have support disk 147 in two parts that engage around verticalmember 101. This allows a user not to have to slide the disk 147 alongthe length of the vertical member. Likewise, the same principle mayapply to collar anchor 1500. Additionally, it is understood that collaranchors 1400 and 1500 may be formed to fit flush with any shapedvertical member, be that round, rectangular, or other shape.

The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as theapplication may be modified and practiced in different but equivalentmanners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of theteachings herein. It is therefore evident that the particularembodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified, and all suchvariations are considered within the scope and spirit of theapplication. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forthin the description. It is apparent that an application with significantadvantages has been described and illustrated. Although the presentapplication is shown in a limited number of forms, it is not limited tojust these forms, but is amenable to various changes and modificationswithout departing from the spirit thereof.

What is claimed is:
 1. A fence post assembly comprising: a verticalmember, wherein the vertical member has a first end and a second end,the vertical member having a plurality of faces; one or more channelrails coupled correspondingly to one or more faces of the plurality offaces, the channel rail extending between the first end and the secondend, the channel rail including a plurality of mating apertures; and anarray of mating apertures running along the one or more channel railsfor coupling a plurality of rails.
 2. The assembly of claim 1, whereineach of the one or more channel rails form a U-shaped mating channel. 3.The assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a removable endcap thatcovers a second end of the vertical member.
 4. The assembly of claim 3,the removable endcap further comprising an aperture.
 5. The assembly ofclaim 1, further comprising: one or more channel caps, wherein the oneor more channel caps covers a second end of the one or more channelrails.
 6. The assembly of claim 1, the vertical member furthercomprising an aperture located on the one or more of the planar faces ofthe vertical member adjacent to the second end.
 7. The assembly of claim1, the vertical member further comprising a gate latch punchout locatedon one planar face of the vertical member.
 8. The assembly of claim 1,the vertical member further comprising a gate coupled to the verticalmember, the gate engaging a set of hinge brackets coupled to thevertical member.
 9. The assembly of claim 1, further comprising: acollar anchor, wherein the vertical member passes through a collar ofthe collar anchor, and wherein the collar anchor is positioned within afirst length of the vertical member, the first length being a portion ofthe vertical member between the channel rail and the first end.
 10. Theassembly of claim 1, further comprising: a set of foundation aperturespassing through the vertical member located within a first length of thevertical member, the first length being a portion of the vertical memberbetween the channel rail and the first end; and a plurality offoundation support bars, wherein the plurality of foundation supportbars pass though the corresponding set of foundation apertures.
 11. Afence post assembly comprising: a first vertical member, wherein thevertical member has a first end and a second end, the vertical memberhaving a plurality of faces; a second vertical member, wherein thesecond vertical member has a first end and a second end, the verticalmember having a plurality of faces; one or more channel rails coupledcorrespondingly to one or more faces of the plurality of faces of thefirst vertical member; one or more channel rails coupled correspondinglyto one or more faces of the plurality of faces of the second member;wherein at least one channel among the one or more channel rails of thefirst vertical member and the second vertical member face one another;each channel rail of the one or more channel rails of the first verticalmember and the one or more channel rails of the second vertical memberextending between the first end and the second end, each channel railincluding a plurality of mating apertures; and a plurality of railspositioned between the first vertical member and the second verticalmember according to the at least one channel among the one or morechannels rails of the first vertical member and the second verticalmember facing one another, the plurality of rails coupled thecorresponding channel rails via the plurality of mating apertures. 12.The assembly of claim 11, further comprising: a set of foundationapertures passing through the first vertical member and the secondvertical member located within a first length of each vertical member,the first length being a portion of each vertical member between thechannel rail and the first end; and a plurality of foundation supportbars, wherein the plurality of foundation support bars pass though thecorresponding set of foundation apertures.
 13. The assembly of claim 11,further comprising: a set of straps, wherein the set of straps arepositioned to pass across the plurality of rails.
 14. The assembly ofclaim 11, the first vertical member further comprising a gate coupled tothe first vertical member, the gate engaging a set of hinge bracketscoupled to the first vertical member.
 15. The assembly of claim 11,further comprising: a first endcap that covers a second end of the firstvertical member; and a second endcap that covers a second end of thesecond vertical member.
 16. The assembly of claim 11, furthercomprising: one or more channel caps, wherein the one or more channelcaps covers a second end of the one or more channel rails correspondingto the first vertical member and the second vertical member.
 17. Theassembly of claim 11, the second vertical member further comprising agate latch punchout on one planar face of the vertical member.
 18. Amethod of constructing a fence system, comprising: locating a pluralityof fence posts in a vertical orientation on a foundation, wherein achannel rail of a first fence post faces towards a channel rail of asecond fence post; anchoring the plurality of fence posts in position;locating a plurality of rails between the first fence post and thesecond post based on the channel rail of the first fence post and thechannel rail of the second fence post, wherein the plurality of railsform a planar barrier based on the channel rail of the first fence postand the channel rail of the second fence post; and fastening theplurality of rails to the channel rail of the first fence post and thechannel rail of the second fence post based on an array of matingapertures corresponding to the channel rail of the first fence post andthe channel rail of the second fence post.
 19. The method of claim 18,further comprising: locating a set of spacers within the channel rail ofthe first fence post and a set of spacers within the channel rail of thesecond fence post, wherein each spacer is located between a set ofboards of the plurality of boards.
 20. The method of claim 18, furthercomprising: locating a first set of channel caps, wherein the first setof channel caps covers a first end corresponding to the channel rail ofthe first fence post and the channel rail of the second fence post.